Backing Basics: Let TCQ Piece Your Backing
Piecing backing - ah - one of the most dreaded of all the quilting tasks. I bet 75% of you have at least one quilt top that is totally ready to go, all you have to do is piece the backing. Don’t you worry, I’ve got you! Trace Creek Quilting is more than happy to tackle this task for you!
First, a caveat. When we say we will help you piece your backing, we mean from yardage, not scraps or the remnants of your fat quarters. Cool? Okay, moving on.
It’s pretty straightforward. Pack up your backing fabric in with your quilt top and order form. Once it arrives and we realize it is not pieced, we will do so for you. Currently there is no spot on the order form to indicate that you need this service simply because the order form is pretty packed as is. However, it’s one of those things that’s pretty obvious. You are welcome to make a note on the order form if you like. We will piece it together with as few seams as possible to get it to the correct size. If it is directional, we will piece it so all the fabric faces the same direction.
We also offer Pattern Matching: If you would like for us to match the pattern so it appears it is all one piece of fabric we are happy to do so. Please note, it is important to order extra fabric when requesting a pattern match. Prints sometimes have large repeats meaning to get to the next place in the fabric where the pattern can line up, I may have to move it significantly up or down or side to side. Below are some examples of fabrics that would make your backing look seamless if we matched up the patterns, but you can see how in these 8-10” swatches, the pattern does not repeat. Usually, ordering a half yard more than you would if you were not pattern matching will suffice. But it’s a good idea to check on the scale of the pattern and size of the repeat before finalizing your order.
When might you want to consider pattern matching? Do not feel any pressure to do this with all of your backings, it’s just not necessary. It’s really nice with larger prints where a seam might be eye catching and disruptive. This makes your finished quilt look more clean and professional. However, the busier the fabric and smaller the print, the less noticeable the seam becomes and pattern matching is no longer as effective.
But what does it cost, Lilo, what does it cost?! Yes, let’s get to that! We currently charge $15/seam for typical piecing, and $30/seam for pattern matching.
That’s all there is to it! If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to helping get your backing ready so you can have a finished quilt to love and enjoy.
